"We are all very different, but we are united by common goals and a shared desire to make this world a little better – for our children and our grandchildren. And metallurgy, as a key area of the company's development, also brings us together. I have the deepest respect for the people who stand at the furnace – the melters, the furnace operators. But the success of the industry also depends on those who prepare raw materials and process them for the metallurgists, those who sell the products, handle transactions, keep the books, and ensure that everything runs smoothly every day. This is our shared celebration," noted Denis Kraev, CEO of JSC SGMK.
At a gala reception in Novokuznetsk, Kemerovo Oblast Governor Ilya Seredyuk congratulated the top workers of metallurgical enterprises and industry veterans on Metallurgist’s Day, presenting certificates of honor to 10 specialists fr om the company and its strategic partners.
"Kuzbass today is a flagship of domestic metallurgy. Despite serious challenges, our metallurgical plants are modernizing their operations and launching new types of competitive products. Over the past year, the West Siberian Electrometallurgical Plant achieved significant results – it was the first in the country to master the production of unique grades of ferrosilicon and ferromanganese. Previously, Russian industrial companies had to import them from abroad. Now the plant is developing a new product – a ferro-silicomanganese alloy with vanadium, which improves steel properties and reduces production costs. These are major accomplishments. But the industry's greatest asset remains its people – the professionals. It is thanks to the work of our steelmakers that Kuzbass metal remains a source of national pride for Russia and a reliable foundation for the economic well-being and defense capability of the entire country," the governor emphasized.
The recognition continued at SGMK's corporate Metallurgist’s Day celebration, held at the Kuznetsky Shooting Park.
"Dear metallurgists, I congratulate you on your professional holiday! SGMK is one of the major players in the Russian market. Fifteen percent of the country's steel is produced from SGMK-supplied raw materials – that's every fifth car and every third bridge. Noviy Vtormet has completely transformed the perception of scrap processing – it's now modern manufacturing and environmental responsibility. The West Siberian Electrometallurgical Plant is our pride. Ecomet ranks third in Russia in aluminum alloy exports. But the most important asset – now and always – is our people. SGMK pursues an active social policy, supports sports, and nurtures young workers. Thank you for maintaining such high standards! May warmth fill your homes and joy fill your work!" said Denis Ilyin, Mayor of Novokuznetsk.
Amid thunderous applause, more than 60 employees of SGMK and its key partners received awards at various levels: the "Golden Sign of Novokuznetsk" honorary badge, "For Conscientious Work for the Benefit of the City" medals, and certificates of honor from the Mayor of Novokuznetsk and the Siberian Mining and Metallurgical Company.
Denis Kraev thanked his colleagues for their contribution to the common cause and their loyalty to the profession. "Your work is a collective feat, wh ere people understand each other without words. Every working day is a challenge. But SGMK never backs down from difficulties – we turn them into a springboard, and every time we rise together to new heights," he said.